I was checking the PFD's, harnesses and tethers before a race couple weeks ago. When I pulled the release on one of the tether's "human" end snap shackle, it disintegrated. The snap shackle could not been released if needed. Very dangerous situation. Please check your safety gear often!!
The tether was a West Marine brand. (Yeah, I know how many times I've posted to the list not to buy anything with the West Marine brand.) Anyway, split rings for snap shackles are hard to find. They must be stronger than the ones you use to secure cotter pins in order to withstand the force of pulling without straightening out. I could have ordered a Ronstan plunger pin kit which includes a single heavy duty split ring for about $20. I decided to look at other options. I ordered some from mcmaster.com. Their Part #90905A652 9/16" 316 stainless split ring seems to work OK. While obviously not as sturdy as the Ronstan, it fit and withstood a significant pull without deforming. Unless you have a rather excitable gorilla on your crew, I suspect it should work just fine. A pack of 10 is about $10-15 shipped. If anyone finds the standard snap shackle split rings online or a better alternative, please post. Dennis C. Touche' 35-1 #83 Mandeville, LA
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